Tag: economy

Armenia's diplomatic footprint reveals its foreign policy goals and challenges: enhancing security, fostering economic ties and amplifying its international presence. Hovhannes Nazaretyan examines how Armenia is positioning itself globally.

Expectations and optimism are often the primary drivers of investment activity. It’s easy to be negative in the current times that Armenia is living, however, hope and optimism are key to inspiring drive, effort and motivation, especially when Armenia needs it most.

Landlocked Armenia, surrounded on two sides by unrelenting foes, has limited access to the outside world. Railways could potentially help alleviate this isolation by providing reliable outside connections for trade and passenger traffic.

Armenia’s statistics agency recently released its annual report on a number of socio-economic metrics covering sectors from trade to tourism to employment and inflation. Hovhannes Nazaretyan presents some of the more interesting findings reflecting the state of the country.

Will the introduction of competition in the retail electricity market benefit consumers or will deregulation lead to market manipulation, price increases and potentially harmful conditions, especially for residential customers? Economist Ara Khanjian explains.

The lack of information and awareness about the benefits of savings and investments, both personally and collectively, and the inadequate provision of policy incentives have not spurred savings. Improving personal financial security, freedom and wellness can positively impact Armenia’s future economic outcomes.

Banks make up the largest portion of Armenia's domestic financial system, accounting for approximately 79% of its total assets. While the banking system is well-regulated and devoid of bankruptcies for more than two decades, Armenia needs to diversify its financial system to ensure growth and prosperity.

Defying expectations, Armenia has been enjoying some very strong economic growth. However, local consumption-savings habits and other factors continue to hinder local production and competitiveness. Samson Avetian explains what needs to change.

Despite efforts to strengthen intellectual property laws in Armenia, the country still faces challenges in effectively protecting and enforcing these rights.

Iran will never accept any Azerbaijani military or political control of southern Armenia. While Tehran is pursuing a policy of strategic patience vis-à-vis Azerbaijan, it does have red lines that, if crossed, would likely produce a swift reaction.